Mums know best!

TWO enterprising Wigan mums reached the final of a prestigious national competition.

Being a parent while juggling a business is hard work, and nobody knows this better than Kelly Harris from Swinley and Jodie Wallace from Leigh.

But they are finally reaping the benefits as their bespoke internet jewellery company, Lavish Lockets, bagged a place in the final line-up of The Mumpreneur Awards – beating more than 3,000 nominees. The award recognises parents throughout the UK who manage the difficult task of juggling business with family life. And while the pair were pipped at the post for the top prize they were still delighted with their progress and the profile-raising attention it earned them.

Kelly, 28, said: “Being mothers we understand how hard it is to find a job that fits around your children. Working for ourselves gave us this unique opportunity to work when we want.

“We couldn’t be more excited that the business is going from strength to strength and we now have something secure to support our loved ones.”

The business was initially launched last year by Kelly as a way for her to stay at home with her young children.

Kelly runs the business while looking after her two daughters, five-year-old Ashleigh, and two-year-old Rosalie.

And pal Jodie, 31, who is a rail planner by day and a mother to Niamh, three, later joined the Lavish Lockets ranks. She described the transition in jobs as “a dream come true”.

As well as being shortlisted for this category, Kelly and Jodie were also shortlisted for the title of The Inspirational Business Mum 2014.

Kelly added: “We were so delighted to be in the final. We wanted to create a company that excels in service and quality. We have the most wonderful customers and absolutely love what we do.”